Guardiola turned down Italy after deciding he needed a break

According to Mirror Football, Italy made a serious attempt to appoint Pep Guardiola as their next national team manager this summer and came close to securing his signature. The former Manchester City boss, however, ultimately turned down the role, preferring to take a break from the game after leaving the Etihad.

The report suggests Guardiola was also approached about the England job, but he declined that opportunity for the same reason. Despite the Football Association's interest and Italy's persistent courtship, Guardiola felt he needed time away from coaching rather than immediately stepping into another high-pressure position.

Italy had identified Guardiola as a prime candidate to lead the national team, and negotiations reportedly advanced. Yet the Catalan coach's decision to step back has left Italy looking elsewhere, while England continue their own search. Real Madrid have also been linked with Guardiola in the past, but no concrete move has materialised.

For now, Guardiola appears content to remain on the sidelines, and fans of the teams involved will have to wait and see whether he returns to management in the near future. Related match highlights can be found on this site.